Here’s a preview of the 2026 Nissan Sentra ahead of its official reveal | Carscoops

      A more aggressive design, rumored hybrid powertrain, and a potential shift in production to the U.S. have brought Nissan’s compact sedan back into the limelight.

      The Sylphy, designed for the Chinese market, foreshadows the upcoming next-generation Sentra for North America. It is slightly longer and wider than its predecessor, while the wheelbase remains unchanged at 2,712 mm (106.7 in).

      U.S. variants could include a 2.0L four-cylinder, a 1.5L turbo, and Nissan’s e-Power hybrid technology.

      Nissan’s enduring compact sedan is ready to enter a new phase. The model showcased is the 2026 Sylphy, closely resembling the next-gen Sentra that is on its way to North America.

      Based on a teaser Nissan unveiled earlier this year and recent prototype sightings in the U.S., it is evident that the two vehicles share nearly identical features. While a global unveiling is anticipated later this year, likely at the LA Auto Show in late November, we’re providing a preview before it becomes available as a 2026 or 2027 model.

      A Bolder Front Design

      A submission to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology reveals the Sylphy’s revamped exterior. The front design features a full-width LED light strip across the grille, connecting to sleek headlamps. Below them are what appear to be vertical daytime running lights, reminiscent of Peugeot’s earlier “fang” design, a style that the French brand is moving away from.

      The overall aesthetic mirrors the Murano while incorporating elements from Nissan’s new electric vehicles in China, such as the N7 sedan, which we highlighted in March. This design appears sharper and sportier, aligning closely with Nissan’s future design philosophy.

      In terms of dimensions, the car sees a slight increase compared to the current Sentra. The Chinese version measures 4,656 mm (183.3 inches) in length, 1,825 mm (71.9 inches) in width, and 1,448 mm (57 inches) in height, maintaining the 2,712 mm (106.7 inches) wheelbase. This translates to marginal increases in length and width compared to the outgoing model, hinting at a roomier interior and a more stable stance.

      Since the wheelbase remains the same and many details, including hood lines, are carried over, it appears Nissan is adopting a strategy akin to Toyota’s with their latest Camry. Instead of starting from the ground up, the company seems to be executing a significant redesign based on the existing platform, a prudent approach considering Nissan’s financial context.

      Current vs. New Nissan Sentra Dimensions

      Engines in Transition

      In the Chinese market, the Sylphy will continue to feature a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 99 kW (135 hp / 137 PS) and 159 Nm (117 lb-ft), paired with a CVT.

      We will need to wait to confirm what North American customers will receive, but it is expected the current 149 hp (111 kW / 151 PS) 2.0-liter four-cylinder will remain the base option. However, insiders suggest additional options may be available. The turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine from the Rogue, generating 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS), is a strong possibility, along with Nissan’s e-Power hybrid system being considered for the North American market.

      A Sedan in Survival Mode

      The Versa and Altima are likely to be discontinued after 2025, which means the Sentra could soon be the sole sedan offered by Nissan in the U.S. and Canada. This redesign is more than just a routine update; it represents Nissan's strategy to compete against rivals like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, and Kia K4.

      We expect pricing to remain comparable to the current range, starting around $22,000 and reaching into the mid-$25,000s. With its updated styling, slightly larger dimensions, and potentially more advanced powertrains, the new Sentra aims to maintain its relevance in a declining yet still competitive sedan market.

      Made in the USA?

      Additionally, reports indicate that Nissan is considering relocating Sentra production from Mexico to the U.S. This decision is aimed at stabilizing finances and circumventing the 25 percent import tariffs that were implemented during the Trump administration.

      We appreciated the previous version, so we hope this one elevates the experience. Perhaps it’s time for the return of the SE-R Spec V. What are your thoughts on the new design? Share your opinions in the comments below!